Remembering Kentucky Basketball legend and 1958 national champion Adrian ‘Odie’ Smith
A life well lived.
1961: Adrian Smith #10 of the Cincinnati Royals poses during a mock action portrait session in 1961. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and/or using this Photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 1961 NBAE (Photo by NBA Photo Library/NBAE via Getty Images) | NBAE via Getty Images The University of Kentucky is mourning the loss of a true legend.
Adrian ‘Odie’ Smith, a cornerstone of Kentucky’s storied history and a Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Famer, passed away on April 28. He was 89 years old. The university released a statement Monday announcing the passing.
Smith leaves behind a legacy that stretches from the bluegrass of Lexington to the Olympic podium in Rome, and all the way to the NBA record books. So, if it’s a name you are unfamiliar with, here is everything you need to know. A champion in Lexington Smith transferred to Kentucky from Northeast Mississippi Junior College and made a huge impact.
Playing under Adolph Rupp during the 1957-58 season, Smith was a beloved member of the iconic ‘Fiddlin’ Five’ that captured the 1958 NCAA National Championship. He was a steady presence, averaging 10. 2 points across 51 total games.